Fresno State Plant Science Senior Spotlight: Luke Prys

Fresno State graduating senior Luke Prys is the epitome of Jordan College students who are committed to getting a strong education and helping feed the Central Valley.

The Hanford native and fourth-generation farmer will receive his plant science degree in crop production and is a Dean’s List honoree with a 3.92 GPA. He is also currently works full-time in the sales department at Fresno Equipment Company (after being a former intern) and is a certified crop advisor.

A key training ground for him was as a student assistant in the campus orchards, and he also helped with California FFA Field Day contests.

He has worked in agriculture since a young age and has been self-reliant to help support his family and pay for his college education (that started at Reedley and West Hills) which has meant night shifts and long weeks.

His career ambitions are to help farmers manage their soil profiles, reduce compaction and emissions, develop new products, and incorporate conservation tillage.

He also volunteers with Love Inc., an organization that delivers furniture and ministers to communities in need.

Read more about him in this Q&A:

 

Why were you drawn to a plant science degree?

Prys: “My family has been involved in California agriculture for four generations since my great grandfather emigrated from the Netherlands searching for a better life. Growing up I knew I always wanted to be in ag. I love getting my hands dirty, working outside, and working with the great people in the industry. I was drawn to the plant science department because of the ability to go into farm management and to learn the skills necessary to successfully run a commercial farm.”

 

What were some of your favorite classes?

Prys: “I learned a lot and enjoyed the real world experiences I got from the mechanized agriculture class. John Williams was the faculty member that had the biggest impact, and really took the time to get to know me. He cares about his students’ success and does everything possible to make sure they have what they need to succeed. Those classes helped me become competent in engine assembly for both gas and diesel engines, fuel systems, and engine trouble shooting.” 

 

Were you able to get experience on the campus farm?

Prys: “I worked in the row crops and orchard unit with Rob Willmott. I operated equipment and helped out in the day-to-day operations to ensure everything worked smoothly.”

 

What were some other practical skills that you acquired from the campus farm and your class experiences?

Prys: “I learned a lot about irrigation scheduling, such as estimating crop water requirements, application amounts, length of application, and soil conditions. I also gained experience in soil sample analysis, avoiding nutrient leaching, and minimizing fertilizer run-off. I also was exposed to crop management practices like nutrient applications, harvest intervals, and growth patterns based on weather conditions.”

 

Besides your sales internship at Fresno Equipment Company, have you had any other internships or key work experiences?

Prys: “I interned with Simplot as a field scout and learned about harmful pests and how to track their flights. While working nights for my grandfather out in Five Points and Huron doing custom tree and tomato applications, I learned the importance of a good work ethic. For the past year I have interned with Fresno Equipment Company and learned about all the work that goes into equipment sales and quality customer service.”

 

What’s been your most rewarding experience at Fresno State?

Prys: “Being nominated as the plant science Dean’s Medalist nominee.”